Iizuka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, has recently launched its special site for the Furusato Tax, aimed at promoting local products and incentivizing donations. Set to provide resident benefits and support local economies, the initiative was officially unveiled on September 2024. This effort marks a significant push toward facilitating easier access to popular local goods for audiences who want to contribute to their hometown.
The town capitalizes on its unique position by offering 20 distinct items available exclusively at special member prices. By operating the Furusato Tax special site directly, Iizuka City eliminates unnecessary costs associated with platform listings, allowing donors to enjoy popular products like various hamburgers at reduced prices.
Among the highlights on the site are delectable options such as:
- Iron Plate Hamburger with Demi-Glace Sauce (20 units)
- Five-Cheese Iron Plate Hamburger (16 units)
- Demi-Glace Hamburger Pair Set (Plain & Cheese)
- 14 Pieces of A5-Grade Hakata Wagyu Raw Hamburger
- Various local seafood products
- Traditional Nabe Sets
- Diverse Coffee Drip Bags
- Nuts and Snacks
The Furusato Tax scheme, which allows individuals to donate to municipalities such as their hometowns, provides significant tax deductions. Donors can claim tax returns on amounts exceeding 2,000 yen, making it financially appealing to support local economies. The city encourages donors to specify how they would like their contributions to be used, adding personal touches to the donation experience.
Background on Iizuka reveals its rich history as a former lodging hub along the Nagasaki Road and its significance during the Chikuho coal mining era, having three universities within its limits. Moving forward, the city envisions becoming "Kenko-to-shi Iizuka" or "Health and Happiness City," where all residents live vibrantly and healthily.
Engagement with the community is at the heart of these initiatives, as city officials have echoed enthusiasm about the potential this program holds for connecting residents with their rich heritage and promoting local products.
For those interested, Iizuka has provided social media outlets to stay updated, including their official Instagram account for the Furusato Tax initiative: iizuka_furusato.
The Iizuka City government welcomes inquiries from interested parties wishing to learn more about the Furusato Tax and regional offerings through their dedicated support room.
By fostering this connection between donors and local produce, Iizuka City not only revitalizes its economy but strengthens the relationship between the community and its residents, emphasizing the importance of local contributions.
